Sarah-Ann Shaw (1933-2024) who grew up here in a house which is no longer standing. She was a pioneering journalist and community activist, known for her impactful career as the first Black female reporter at WBZ-TV in Boston, where she worked from 1969 to 2000. Born and raised in Roxbury, MA, she attended Boston’s Girls Latin School and Boston University. Shaw was deeply involved in the civil rights movement, participating in the NAACP Youth Council and co-founding the Northern Student Movement. She was heavily influenced by Melnea Cass and worked alongside many other activists. During her tenure at WBZ-TV, Shaw became a prominent figure, especially noted for her coverage of Boston’s school desegregation. Her work extended beyond journalism, as she actively supported various social and educational causes, including the Freedom House and the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ). She received numerous awards for her contributions, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from NABJ and induction into the MA Broadcasters Hall of Fame. In recognition of her legacy, Sarah-Ann Shaw was included in the “1965 Freedom Plaza” around “The Embrace” sculpture on Boston Common in 2023. Shaw’s life was marked by her dedication to service, her love for the arts, and her commitment to social justice. She enjoyed traveling, music, and supporting cultural and civil rights organizations. Sarah-Ann Shaw’s legacy lives on through her family, her work, and the many lives she touched throughout her career.
